Clodagh's Cork City Guide
Cork has always been known as the food capital of Ireland. Situated in the most southern region of the island, it has the most magical coastline with an abundance of seafood, innovative farmers and artisan food producers as well as villages with bustling farmers markets. If you love food then you will love Cork! It’s where I was born and grew up, hence my love of local food.
where to eat
A beloved spot located within the historic English Market. Plan your trip so that you can have lunch or breakfast there - their menu is filled with delicious dishes using the freshest produce from the market. Known for its warm atmosphere and commitment to quality, it's a perfect place to enjoy dishes while overlooking the bustling market below.
A cosy and vibrant eatery known for its Mediterranean-inspired dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Tucked away on Pembroke Street, this intimate spot offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for enjoying flavourful small plates, hearty mains, and delicious coffee. With a focus on fresh, seasonal produce and a menu that caters to both vegetarians and meat lovers, Orso Kitchen is a must-visit for a relaxed and satisfying meal in the heart of Cork City.
Owned and run by a brilliant chef, Denis Cotter, who has been at the helm of the food scene for over two decades. Denis revolutionised vegetarian cooking, and is a pioneer of local food. There are also a few lovely rooms above the restaurant that you can stay in.
A sea-to-table restaurant “seacuterie” scene and the brainchild of executive chef Stephen Kehoe. It offers locally caught fish including thoughtfully prepared mackerel that’s smoked, sardines that are pickled and halibut that’s steamed. Local, sustainable and fresh fish, yes please!
Another trailblazer on the sustainable food scene is Texas-born Virginia O’Gara. Her restaurant My Goodness is a zero-waste vegan haven. The menu is a small range of dishes that rely solely on local ingredients – so no air miles here. Tangy kombuchas reuse rainwater from the filtration systems; kefir is produced with local milk, while sauerkraut is made from Irish cabbages. So cool!
Another not to miss restaurant, situated above their micro-brewery. It’s a small intimate restaurant with an open-plan kitchen – order the gently smoked beef brisket croquetas with rojak sauce or the wood-grilled sirloin with smoked cascade butter.
where to drink
A charming and intimate spot, perfect for wine lovers and cheese enthusiasts alike. Located in the vibrant Victorian Quarter, this cosy wine bar offers an impressive selection of carefully curated wines from around the world, paired beautifully with artisanal cheeses and charcuterie. Whether you're looking to enjoy a casual glass of wine or indulge in a delicious cheese board, MacCurtain Wine Cellar provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere for a delightful evening out in Cork.
If you are looking for the atmosphere of a pub then plan a visit here. They brew fantastic craft beers and ales including Rebel Red, Frier Weisse and Shandon Stout. You can enjoy these natural, tasty beers in the garden, while chomping on a wood-fired pizza! With live music, beer festivals and other cultural events, this brewpub is a must-visit for a real taste of Cork.
where to stay
A luxurious and historic hotel located in the heart of the city. With its elegant Georgian architecture and stylish interiors, this iconic hotel offers a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern comfort. Guests can enjoy beautifully appointed rooms, exceptional dining at the hotel's restaurants, and a relaxing spa experience. The Imperial is ideally situated for exploring Cork's rich cultural scene, making it a top choice for both leisure and business travelers seeking a refined and memorable stay.
FOOD MARKETS
Monday - Saturday, 8.30am-6pm
This is one of the most iconic covered food markets in Europe, It is unmissable! Fabulous stalls of seafood, charcuterie, bread, poultry, farmhouse cheeses, olives, flowers, and so much more, as well as fantastic sandwich and sushi stalls.
Monday - Sunday, 8am - 8pm
Down at the city’s docks, a fun new hipster food market with great stalls serving up ready to eat dishes from vegan plant based foods to Mexican, and Korean.
Every Thursday, 10am - 3pm
This is one of the best farmers markets in the country. Situated in the plaza at the main entrance to the Mahon Point Shopping Centre. Here you will find some of the best artisan food producers from organic vegetables to cheese to fresh fish. There are also great food to go stalls – delicious pizza, salads and brilliant coffee and cakes.
Every Saturday, 8am - 2pm
This fabulous farmers market is situated in one of the most historical market trading streets in Cork city. It is a smaller market compared to Mahon and the English market but the quality of the produce makes up for it. Here you will find organic veg, fish from West Cork, eggs, bread, buns, jams, cakes, juices, crepes and flowers. Vegetarians and those looking for Gluten Free food are especially well catered for. And it’s very local. Even the Miso Soup, seaweed salads and Falafel rolls are made with mostly or exclusively local ingredients.
So, have I convinced you? You can get a flight on Aer Lingus or Ryan Air to Cork Airport from all London Airports. And lastly don’t forget to bring your swimmers as you can swim pretty much everywhere you go. Oh and also bring the craic!
